My Plain Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows

If you are a die hard fan of Jane Eyre and all things Brontë, this book is not for you. However, if you enjoy a silly and farcical retelling, then My Plain Jane might just be your new favorite book. The story begins at Lowood school shortly after the death of Mr. Brocklehurst. Many of the characters are the same and the skeleton of the story is a match. However, in this version Charlotte Brontë attends school along with Jane Eyre. Jane can see ghosts and is currently being recruited to join the Society for the Relocation of Wayward Spirits.

When Jane goes to be a governess, Charlotte and her new friend Alexander Blackwood follow to convince Jane to join the Society. All that follows is romance, misunderstandings, and gothic comedy. This is a comic and silly story on its own, but readers familiar with Jane Eyre will get the most out of the book. If I were still teaching high school English, I would definitely assign this book immediately following the classic Brontë novel. It is perfect comic relief after the somber gothic tale.

Recommended ages--13 and up

Fire and Heist by Sarah Beth Durst

Sky Hawkins dreams of completing her first heist. In her family of wyverns--humans able to turn into dragons--stealing treasure is a right of passage and Sky is ready. However, when her opportunity comes, there is much more at stake than Sky ever expected. After her mother recently went missing, Sky’s family seems to be falling apart. Now Sky has the chance to lead a heist that leads not only to a valuable jewel, but also to the truth of what happened to her mother.

Described by the author as Ocean’s Eleven with were-dragons, Fire and Heist will appeal to both the adventure and fantasy crowd. There is plenty of action, humor, and dragons to please all types of readers. The characters are quirky and enjoyable and the writing is clever and fast-paced. A light read I greatly enjoyed.

Recommended ages--12 and up

My Father’s Words by Patricia Maclachlan

When Fiona and Finn O’Brien lose their father in an accident, they are unsure how to deal with their grief. Their father was always the one with the listening ear and a comforting word. At their friend Luke’s suggestion, Fiona and Finn begin volunteering at the local animal shelter. Their experience there as well as help from other areas allows the healing process to begin.

As usual, Patricia Maclachlan is able to tell a poignant story with very few words. She shares hope and healing in a story appropriate for both children an adults. I finished this sweet story in a short afternoon read and would recommend it for any family dealing with a loss.

Recommended ages--9 and up